Cenotaph
Located in Whitehall, the Cenotaph is a grand memorial to British and Commonwealth citizens who lost their lives during the First and Second World Wars. Originally intended to commemorate specifically the victims of the First World War, a dedication was added in 1946 for those who died in World War II and it is now used to commemorate all of the dead in all wars in which British servicemen and women have fought.
Now a Grade I listed building, it was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and erected in 1919 as a temporary structure for the Allied Victory Parade in 1919. Originally made of wood and plaster, the structure was rebuilt from Portland stone for commemoration of the Armistice in 1920.
On Remembrance Sunday, the Sunday closest to November 11, wreaths are laid at the Cenotaph by the Queen and Prime Minister. Other annual remembrances held at the Cenotaph at various points in the year include those marking the D-Day landings in Normandy in the Second World War, the Falklands War, the campaigns marked by Anzac Day, and services marking the first day of the Somme Offensive.
Location
Cenotaph
Whitehall
Westminster
W1
Nearest Tube / Rail Station
Charing Cross